Learn what sports management degrees are available online
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Sports managers represent the business side of athletic organizations. They provide the support and education competitors need to perform at their maximum potential. Even with a full-time career and family, if you are an aspiring sports manager, you can pursue a degree that will help you get started in this exciting field. Online education programs offer affordable courses that are designed to fit into your busy schedule with minimal interruption.
A nationally accredited online college degree holds the same reputation as one from a college campus—making you a competitive asset in the job market. An important part of choosing an online education program is finding if the program has been accredited. The Sports Management Program Review Counsel (SMPRC) ensures that sports management courses and professors maintain high quality standards before the board gives its approval. The type of degree you choose determines where you may find your future career.
Associate of the Arts in Sports Management
Earning an associate of the arts degree online lays an important foundation for an education in sports management, and is an economical first step to take in a sports management career. With this program students gain introductory knowledge and begin developing core skills in management, finance, ethics and marketing. The only educational requirement is a high school diploma or passing a GED test. This degree usually takes two years to complete and can open the door to basic entry-level positions. Sports management is a fiercely competitive business and earning an associate's degree is a solid first step.
Bachelor of Science in Sports Management
Students participating in a bachelor's degree program learn essential skills in management for this lucrative industry. Some associate's degree graduates choose to continue their education by earning a bachelor's degree, which takes another two years to complete. For students with no prior degree, this program takes four years to complete and will open more job opportunities than an associate's. Some common sports business careers that newly graduated bachelor's degree holders pursue include entry-level positions in marketing and recruitment, public relations, sports journalism and facilities management.
Master of Science in Sports Management
A master's degree program specializes in building on your proficiency as a leader in the sports environment. A typical Master of Science program takes two years to complete and includes classes in accounting, ethics, statistics and law in relation to sports. The prerequisite to this program is the completion a bachelor's degree. A master's degree can often lead to a career in sports marketing or in managing professional sports teams, facilities, college and university physical and sports education programs, and fitness clubs.
Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree
Graduates of an MBA degree program have highly developed business skills that prepare them for advanced managing roles. The MBA's focus on business course sets it apart from a Master of Science degree—which provides a more general education. Like the master's degree, an MBA requires a bachelor's degree and usually takes two years to complete. An MBA program prepares you for careers in fields such as facilities management, sports marketing and the highly competitive world of sports agents.
Doctor of Philosophy in Sports Management
The most advanced program in sports management is the doctor of philosophy degree. The courses are designed for people who want to become educators and instruct the next generation of sports management majors. Doctorate programs include courses on business, communication and history. A bachelor's degree is required to participate, and the PhD program can take three to four years to complete including a doctoral dissertation. Graduates find work in advanced careers such as school athletics directors, professors of sports management or as researchers.
Sources: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2008; North American Society for Sport Management
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University of Phoenix
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Ashford University
Ashford University Online allows you to earn a respected degree without the traditional hassles. Build your class schedule around your busy life and earn your degree with Ashford's affordable, accelerated and convenient online programs.
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